Toyota Marks 25 Years of Yaris Production in France with New Yaris Cross Model

Toyota's manufacturing plant in Onnaing, northern France, has been producing the Yaris and Yaris Cross models for 25 years, recently celebrating the milestone of 5 million vehicles produced. The plant, established in 2001, initially produced 150,000 cars annually with 1,900 employees; today it manufactures around 300,000 vehicles per year with a workforce of approximately 4,800. The Yaris Cross, a compact SUV based on the popular Yaris, was first introduced in April 2020 and arrived in Israel in August 2021, soon marking five years on the market.

The French plant is part of Toyota's broader European manufacturing network, which includes facilities in the Czech Republic, the UK, Portugal, Turkey, Ireland, and Poland. In 2025 alone, these plants are expected to produce nearly 1.23 million vehicles, with 77% of Toyota models sold in Europe manufactured locally. The Onnaing plant operates 24/7 in three shifts, producing a new vehicle every 58 seconds, combining robotic automation with manual quality inspections and assembly.

Toyota emphasizes reducing environmental impact, aiming for zero emissions from its vehicles by 2030 and pursuing a "Beyond Zero" goal to positively impact the environment. The plant incorporates solar energy, recycling of metal and plastic waste, water desalination, and rainwater use to minimize its carbon footprint, saving approximately 3.17 tons of CO2 annually through waste reduction alone.

The updated 2026 Yaris Cross, showcased at the plant, retains its hybrid 1.5-liter powertrain with two output options: 116 hp and 130 hp (the latter not available in Israel), with fuel efficiency of 22.7 km per liter. The facelift includes a new honeycomb grille, redesigned bumper, LED lighting signature, new wheel designs, and additional color options. Interior upgrades feature platinum-colored upholstery, ambient lighting, and wireless charging. A sportier GR version offers unique styling and suspension tuning but retains the same engine.

The refreshed Yaris Cross is expected to arrive in Israel by the end of 2026, continuing Toyota's commitment to the European B-segment market with locally produced, environmentally conscious vehicles.